THE IMPACT OF SCHOOL SIZE

Shepherd Lutheran School's small size (enrollment about 60) usually doesn't impress too many people.  We may not have a gym or a wonderful playground area.  We may not have all the extras that many big schools have.  But there is remarkable consistency among research studies that have been reported on school size:  smaller is better.  Simply put, smaller schools work better for most kids.  Small schools strengthen interpersonal relationships and sense of family.  Small schools generally have stronger parental commitment and involvement.  This of itself proves educational productivity.  Why could you be impressed by our size?

• Academic achievement in small schools is at least equal, and often superior, to that of large schools.
• Levels of extracurricular participation are much higher and more varied.  There is a strong correlation between school success and involvement in extracurricular activity. 
• Student attitudes toward school are generally more positive.
• Student social behavior is more positive.
• Every student has a greater sense of belonging.
• Interpersonal relations between and among students and teachers are more positive. 
• Personal and academic confidences are stronger.
• Students of all ages interact with each other.
• Students and teachers know and care about one another to a greater degree.
• Safety is always a concern.  Teachers can better identify and then help correct problems between students.  Strangers can be easily spotted and approached by staff. 
• Communication between parents and teachers increases.

• Students take more of the responsibility for their own learning.
  
  
  We believe that one of our greatest strengths here at Shepherd Lutheran School is our family atmosphere.  The students know each other and interact with each other all the way from the Upper grader to the Preschooler.  Teacher/student relationships, as well as teacher/parent relationships, are generally strong and productive.  Parents get to know other parents.  They also get to know the other students in school.  This family atmosphere enhances all learning.  We are proud of our small school.  We know that smaller is better.